The man was sitting next to the four suspects when they started making derogatory statements toward him about his possible sexual orientation, Sacramento police Officer Michele Gigante said.

When the man tried to get off the train on 8th Street and O Street around 11:13 p.m., the suspects repeatedly punched him. The man went to the hospital for treatment Saturday.

Gigante said the assault is being looked into as a possible hate crime.

One suspect was described as a 24-year-old black man 5'8" weighing 180 pounds with an athletic build short flattop. He was last seen wearing a black polo and blue jeans.

Anyone with information about this crime is urged to call Sacramento police at (916) 264-5471 or Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP (4357) or text in a tip to 274637 (CRIMES). Enter SACTIP followed by the tip information. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.